Guy Carrozzo, mayor of Fountain Valley, welcomed the participants and gave an inspirational speech to begin the walk.  As Boy Scout Troop 412 carried the flag, participants, volunteers, children in strollers, and even a few pet dogs walked laps around the lake.  Afterwards walkers were treated to Starbucks coffee, snacks, chili-cheese dogs, and refreshing beverages.  Dozens of  prizes were awarded and many young faces were painted by the Volunteer Clowns of Orange County.

Executive Director Sister Kathy Stein thanked the walkers on behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and families of Thomas House.  She also accepted a $1,000 check from the Garden Grove Firefighters IAFF Local 2005.  Other groups receiving recognition as presenting sponsors (donations of $1000 or more) were Lawrence Elementary School, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Sam’s Club #6627, and the Law Offices of John L. Michels.  Key Club, KIWIN, and other volunteers representing 15 high schools assisted throughout the day and shared their spirit of service and youthful enthusiasm.

Walk-A-Thon chairpersons, Mark and Sheila Michels, thank their outstanding planning committee and all those who contributed to the success of this Celebration in the Park.  Thanks to all of you, Walk-A-Thon 2009 raised over $20,000 for Thomas House.

Plan now to be a part of Walk-A-Thon 2010 next spring!

"I just want to extend our appreciation for all the needs that you meet for us on a daily basis. You have assisted my family in helping us to get stable and to reach our daily goals, not to mention enabling us to have a bigger and brighter future. I could never thank you enough. ”
- AThomas House Resident